Freddie Rodriguez followed in his dad's footsteps when it came to racing his bike. His dad was a racer in Colombia in 50's and 60's. His inspiration came during the 1984 Olympics when he saw Alexi Grewal win the road race and a gold medal.

At 11-years-old he got a used bike from his dad. Freddie quickly realized the freedom of riding. His first race was a criterium and his first club was out of the Montrose bike shop.

Freddie says the first bit of interest from the junior national team was after racing the La Vuelta de Bisbee. He was invited to a national team camp.  From there he would be given the chance to race in Europe He says one of his greatest accomplishments as a junior was helping Jeff Evanshine win the Junior Worlds Road Race in 1991.

During his Under 23 years Freddie rode for Spago and the national team racing all over Europe. At 18 he was living in Ghent, Belgium learning the ropes of kermesse racing. From 92-95 he continued to ride with the national team with Rene Wenzel as his coach.

In 1996 he turned pro with Saturn. The team gave Freddie an opportunity to mature as a rider and man before heading to Europe to ride for Mapei.

This is one of two interviews with Freddie about his career and what he's doing now.